Bettoni says it is unfair to compare Xabi Alonso with French-Algerian icon Zinedine Zidane

Former Real Madrid assistant Davide Bettoni has defended Xabi Alonso, insisting it is premature to measure him against Zinedine Zidane.

Zidane, who is of Algerian descent, won three consecutive Champions League titles as Real Madrid manager and is widely regarded as one of the club’s greatest figures.

Bettoni, who served as Zidane’s No. 2, says the former Spain midfielder needs time to assert himself among the squad.

“Zidane never cracked the whip; he got along very well with all the players,” he explained.

He added that Zidane always encouraged players during difficult moments, choosing positivity over criticism.

“When someone was feeling down, he always said positive things, never negative ones,” Bettoni said.

Bettoni also addressed concerns over perceived tension between Alonso and the dressing room, particularly regarding Vinicius Junior.

“What happened with Vini shouldn’t be blown out of proportion. Xabi and Vini don’t know each other, and everything can be resolved in the locker room,” he noted.

He urged fans and pundits to allow Alonso to develop in his own style, emphasizing that comparisons to Zidane or Carlo Ancelotti are unfair.

“We have to give Xabi Alonso time; he’s a different kind of coach than Zidane and Carlo,” Bettoni said.

Real Madrid are adjusting under Alonso’s leadership, balancing the expectations of a star-studded squad with the need for cohesion. Bettoni believes patience will be crucial for both the coach and the players.